Yes, hair highlights do fade over time.
Why Do Highlights Fade?
The lightening process involved in creating highlights, whether through bleaching or coloring, inevitably leads to a degree of fading. According to the provided reference, "all lightening services will fade a little overtime". This is a natural process, and several factors contribute to how quickly and dramatically highlights will fade.
Factors Contributing to Fading Highlights:
Several factors impact how quickly your highlights will fade. These include:
- Sun Exposure: Prolonged exposure to the sun's UV rays can break down the color molecules in your hair, causing highlights to fade and become brassy.
- Washing Frequency: Washing your hair too often can strip the color, leading to faster fading.
- Water Type: Hard water can deposit minerals in your hair, affecting the color and causing fading.
- Hair Products: Using harsh shampoos or products not designed for color-treated hair can accelerate fading.
- Heat Styling: Frequent heat styling can damage the hair cuticle, leading to loss of color.
- Lack of Proper Hair Care: The reference states that highlights fade especially if you're not using the proper hair care regimen recommended by your trusted hairstylist.
How to Maintain Your Highlights
While fading is inevitable, you can take steps to prolong the vibrancy of your highlights:
- Use Color-Safe Shampoo and Conditioner: These products are formulated to protect color from fading and keep your highlights vibrant.
- Limit Washing Frequency: Try to wash your hair only when necessary, using dry shampoo in between washes.
- Protect from the Sun: Wear a hat or use UV protectant hair products when spending time in the sun.
- Use a Water Filter: Install a water filter to remove harsh minerals from your water.
- Avoid Excessive Heat Styling: Try to air-dry your hair whenever possible and use heat protectant sprays when using heat tools.
- Follow Your Stylist's Advice: Your stylist will recommend a specific care regimen tailored to your hair.
In Summary
In short, yes, highlights will fade. The good news is that you can take steps to minimize fading and maintain the vibrancy of your color for as long as possible. Remember to be proactive in the care of your hair and it will ensure longer-lasting highlights.
